Expert: John A. Tvedtnes - 1/3/2007

Question
Hi there Dean.

Could you please share your knowledge on the differences between the Jerusalem temple and the Palestinian synagouge during the NT period? As in the aspect of worship, leadership, participation and function etc etc.

Your help is MUCH appreciated!
Thanks in advance :)

Answer
The temple was used mainly for ritual (sacrifices, purification ceremonies) and for the celebration of the major religious festivals (Passover, Feast of Weeks, Yom Kippur, Feast of Sukkot/booths), when Jews would gather from far and near.

While some religious leaders (priests and rabbis) taught in the outer courts of the temple, the synagogues were the major places of worship and study.  Prayers offered in the synagogue required the participants to face Jerusalem as the site of the temple, which was considered God's home away from home on the earth.  Sabbath services held weekly were in the synagogue, and there were prayers recited and scriptures read (on an annual cycle).  Classes on Jewish law were also taught in the synagogues.